School of Education

General Information

Our Mission

The School of Education at North Central University is committed to producing teachers who are academically prepared for excellent teaching and who utilize the best pedagogical practices, model Christ-like character, and devote themselves to lifelong learning.

Licensure Programs

North Central University has been approved by the Minnesota Board of Teaching to offer programs leading to teacher licensure. The School of Education offers the following undergraduate programs, which have been fully approved by the Board of Teaching:

Elementary Education (grades K-6) with an optional middle school endorsement (grades 5-8) in Mathematics, Communication Arts and Literature, or Social Studies

Communication Arts and Literature (grades 5-12)

Social Studies (grades 5-12)

Mathematics (grades 5-12)

Vocal Music Education (grades K-12)

Upon successful completion of all coursework, field experiences, and required licensure exams, graduates may be recommended for a Minnesota state teaching license for the specified subject and age group. Detailed information on our licensure programs, departmental policies, and admissions processes can be found in the School of Education Handbook. Policies set forth in the handbook are subject to change.

demonstrates, by lifestyle and teaching, education as a life-long process.

understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and can create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for students.

understands how children and adolescents learn and develop and can provide learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social and personal development.

understands how learners differ in their approaches to learning and can create instructional opportunities that are adapted to learners from diverse cultural or economic backgrounds or to children with exceptionalities.

understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage the students' development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills.

uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement, and self-motivation.

plans and manages instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community, and curriculum guides.

understands and uses formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social, and physical development of his/her learners.

develops as a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of his/her choices and actions on the learning community and who actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.

understands the importance of communicating and interacting with parents/guardians, families, school colleagues, and the community to support the students' learning and well being.

will understand and apply the research base for, and the best practices of, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and/or high school education.

will apply a general understanding of federal and state rules and statutes as they relate to general and special needs populations.

demonstrates the servant-leadership model of concern and service towards others.

will create and be able to express a personal philosophy of education that is established upon a synthesis of one's Christian worldview, knowledge of the teaching/learning process, and knowledge of the established traditional philosophies of education, research in the disciplines, and practical experience.

Academic Policies

The Student Handbook explains School of Education policies, the program admissions process, field experiences, and career services. This handbook is subject to revision, and new versions will be uploaded as necessary.